KAT BURKI RAW BEAUTY

I recently reviewed Kat Burki Raw Beauty Products.  Each product was gentle and effective, while promoting healthier skin; the natural and raw ingredients in each of the products nourished my skin, infusing it with antioxidants, peptides, essential oils, and vitamins.  Whether it was my face or body, my skin was left with a healthy glow and firmer texture; I also noticed improved levels of hydration, and diminished fine lines.  I actually received unsolicited compliments on the healthy and youthful appearance of my skin.  In reviewing the natural and organic ingredients used in each product’s formulation, it was easy to appreciate why my skin felt and looked fresh, revitalized, and healthy.  I also reviewed a few of her elegant fragrances.

 

~ About the Creator ~

“Kat Burki creates beautiful experiences through skincare and beauty products as well as a sophisticated line of fine fragrances. The carefully crafted formulations are faceted by Kat’s rich sensory experiences as a designer and her early Healthcare training. From design, Kat’s keen eye for detail blossomed into captivating fragrance creations and an innovative ability to bring life to a beauty line, while her professional expertise translated into integrating high quality, unadulterated combinations with lasting therapeutic results. Cold Pressed Oils, a KB 5 Herb Blend, and unique Raw ingredients, fused in trend-setting harmony, results in a luxurious and highly innovative skincare offering. Embracing a larger mission driven by Kat’s own passion for Balance and Beauty, the Kat Burki Brand gives You a Lifestyle of Naturally Balanced Beauty.”

~ Why Raw Ingredients ~

While I’ve tried to keep current with all of the technological advances in skincare, I’ve also been curious about the benefits of raw ingredients as it related to ingredient integrity and product efficacy.  Since I was testing products that were based on Raw Beauty as a brand, I asked its developer Kat Burki for her insight on ingredient integrity and product efficacy; following is what she shared ~

“Harvesting ingredients at their peak time allow for greater vitamin and antioxidant concentration, thus producing superior results.  It’s the same concept of buying fresh ripe fruits and vegetables – the darker the color, the more full of healthful vitamins.  Temperatures are just as important as well.  We all know that if you overcook, or can a vegetable, you deplete them of all nutritional value.  It’s the state and quality of the ingredient that make greater effective results.  Oils that are unprocessed and cold pressed are more rapidly absorbed by the body, since the molecular size and quality is similar to your own skin temperature.  Additionally, we pay particular attention to ingredient combinations.  Ingredients are selected not only for their curative and protective properties, but also to help boost/enhance the other ingredients.  For example, Raw Reishi mushroom has proven anti-aging results, but also works in tandem with algae collagen to help promote its absorption into human skin.”

~ Products and Experiences ~

Ocean Mineral Face Wash ~ This was an extremely gentle foaming gel that thoroughly cleansed the skin without drying or irritating it; my skin was left hydrated; the fresh aroma makes cleansing time enjoyable.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavender Water, Ocean Mineral Complex, Natural Fragrance, Clary Sage Essential Oil, Olive Oil, Organic Rose Hip Oil, Borage Oil, Orange Peel Tincture, Oregano Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Grapefruit Seed, Calendula, Burdock Root, Red Clover, Organic Rosemary, and Vitamin E.

Hibiscus Antioxidant Face Mask ~ A beautiful soufflé-like Mask that gently deep cleans and exfoliates; product was non-drying and non-irritating, and left my skin hydrated; this was also a great lip Mask; I especially enjoyed the natural infusion of Hibiscus, Cranberry and Blueberry particles, which accelerated the natural exfoliation process;I sometimes used this as a cleanser.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Aloe Barbadensis, Kaolin Clay, Glycolic Acid, Palm Oil, Vitamin C, Coconut Oil, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Natural Fragrance, Cranberry Fibers, Hibiscus Petals, Blueberry, Organic Cranberry, Sweet Almond Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Wildcrafted Oregon Grape, Green Tea, and Bayberry, Organic Licorice, Organic Cayenne, Raspberry Seed Oil, Seabuckthorn Oil, Red Wine Polyphenols, Organic Jojoba Oil, Tamanu Oil, Rose Hip Oil, Coenzyme Q10, Hyaluronic Acid, Periwinkle, Apricot Kernel Oil, Phytic Acid, Phospholipids, Vitamin E, Lecithin, Apple, Lemon, Sugar Cane, Peptides, Lemongrass, Vitamin C Palmitate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, Phospholipids, Retinol, and Vitamin A.

Beauty Elixir ~ This spray serum was refreshing to use and had the delicious aroma of cucumber.  It was also exceptionally hydrating.  I enjoyed using it throughout the day; try chilling it before using to really ramp up its refreshing properties; great for hot flashes, too.  Key ingredients include Structured Electrolyzed Water, Colloidal Silver, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavender Distillate, Natural Fragrance, Enzymes, Organic Camu Camu Berry, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Raspberry Seed Oil), Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C, Glycolic Acid, Oil of Tamanu, Carrot Oil, and Noni. 

Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream ~ The whipped silky consistency of this product was calming; it quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue, while maintaining hydration levels; over time, my skin tone became clearer, more even and luminous; sporadic dry patches disappeared, including pore minimization, and fine lines were diminished.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Aloe Barbadensis, Palm Oil, Vitamin C, Safflower Oil, Natural Fragrance, Colloidal Silver, Wildcrafted Reishi, Ocean Mineral Concentrate, Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Vitamin B5, and Organic Green Tea.

Raw Sugar Scrub ~ This was another extremely gentle product that thoroughly exfoliated the skin without drying or irritating it; regular use improved the overall texture of dry-prone areas; this non-greasy Scrub also left skin wonderfully hydrated and smooth.  Key ingredients include Organic Sucrose, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Coconut Oil, Natural Fragrance, Kukui Nut Oil, and Macadamia Seed Oil.

Body Butter ~ Dense, rich butter that was quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue, improved levels of hydration on very dry areas, hydration maintained throughout day.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Coconut Oil, Cocoa Butter, Natural Fragrance, Organic Beeswax, Organic Jojoba Oil, Tamanu Oil, Organic Borage Oil, Organic Flax Seed Oil, Organic Evening Primrose Oil, Organic Rose Hip Oil, Vitamin B5, Wildcrafted Arnica, Organic Lavender, Organic Calendula, Organic Chamomile, Grapeseed Oil, and Macadamia Nut Oil. 

Hand Therapy ~ This was an intense therapeutic treatment product that restored lost hydration to the hands, forearms, and especially the dry cuticle areas; hydration levels were restored; product was quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue; very concentrated, so very little was needed; ideal to apply before retiring for the evening; just make sure to wear protective gloves to seal in the healing properties, which intensify while sleeping.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glyceryl Stearate (Plant Derived), Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant Derived), Safflower Seed Oil, Stearic Acid (Plant Derived), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Palm Oil, Natural Fragrance, Decyl Glucoside (plant derived), Glyceryl Caprylate (Natural Preservative), Tocopherol (Antioxidant), Honeysuckle Flower Extract, and Honeysuckle Extract.

Glossy Lip Treatment ~ This was another exceptionally hydrating product that also nourished and brightened the lip area; this works well when a lip crayon or lipstick are applied under or over the product; easy closure tip eliminates waste.  Key ingredients include Organic Castor Seed Oil, Organic Coconut Oil, Coconut Oil, Organic Beeswax, Natural Fragrance, Vitamin E, and Cinnamon Essential Oil.

~ Kat Burki Fragrances ~

A flawless complexion is a perfect accessory; fragrance is also a perfect accessory, since it illumes the persona.  Kat Burki Fragrances are elegant and add just the right amount of fresh and vibrant fragrance without being cloying.  Each of these fragrances has its own personality; individual dry down notes intensify the aromatic complexity of each fragrance, making for an impressive and distinct profile.

Tubéreuse Essential Eau de Parfum ~ This beautiful floral fragrance was sweet with a delicate powdery dry down.  Top notes capture the aromatic properties of Green, Bergamot, Peach Nectar, Fruity, Orange, and Ozonic Fresh; the middle notes capture Jasmine, Sweet Herbal, Lily, Rose, Neroli, Violet, Creamy Coconut, and Clove; and, the base notes capture Rosewood, Powdery Musks, Piney, Green Leaves, Woody, and Spicy Nuances.

Silk Noir Eau de Parfum ~ This is a very sophisticated fragrance that’s perfect for the evening or when the temperature is cooler.  Top notes capture aromatic properties of Bergamot Zest; the middle notes capture Crushed Violet Petals and Vetiver; and, base notes capture Agarwood, Woody, Sandalwood, and Guaiacwood.

Trellis Eau de Parfum ~ This is another beautiful floral that was also sweet with a delicate powdery dry drown.  Top notes capture the aromatic properties of Fresh Greens and Orange Zest; the middle notes capture Jasmine, Rose, Muguet, Violet, Sweet Herbal, and Ylang Ylang; and, the base notes capture Powdery Musks, Orris, Woody, Amber, Rosewood, Sandalwood, and Patchouli.

~ The Product Mix ~

While I’ve listed some of the key ingredients for the products I tested, visit the website for a more complete listing of all ingredients within this beautiful line.  Kat Burki is found in a number of upscale retail establishments and specialty boutiques (e.g. Henri Bendel, Lord & Taylor, Clyde’s on Madison, Space.NK, Nordstrom, Clementine Beauty).  http://katburki.com

~ In Closing ~

Finding the right products that nourish while effectively improving and maintaining quality levels in skincare takes patience, time, and trial and error; further, not everyone’s skin reacts the same as another to the same products; the same is true for products used on the body.  When it comes to fragrance, preference is key and how the body reacts to some fragrances because of ingredient sensitivity.  Again, finding the right one can take time.  Keep in mind, too, that although you might fall in love with some products or fragrances, make sure that the formulas or ingredients don’t change, because their performance will directly impact their functionality on you.  Lastly, products and regimens, and this also includes fragrance, also require modifying and adapting to the seasonal changes.  While it’s a lot to remember and the process daunting at times, in the end, the results are worth the effort.  

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Cision Seek or Shout, Plaxo, Red Room, Pinterest, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

IN THE BAG ~ SUMMER TAKE-WITHS

It’s summertime and living can become hectic.  Warmer temperatures and longer days encourage people to want to spend as much time outdoors as possible, whether working or vacationing, and take advantage of the extra sunlight.  More time is spent away from the home, and being prepared for whatever may hit one’s schedule is important.  Here are a few products I recently tested that you might want to consider putting into your away-bag.  Enjoy!

Mally Beauty Lip Magnifier, Sexy Siren ~ This lip crayon glides on easily and leaves the delicate tissue hydrated.  It’s the perfect summer color that complements the lightly sun-kissed or sun-tanned skin, fair or dark.  Can also be used as a blush to add a subtle bit of color to cheekbones.  http://www.mallybeauty.com

 

Naturopathica Lavender Honey Balancing Mist ~ This is a perfect toner that refreshes and protects, and is ideal all year long, but especially during summer when skin can be sensitive, finicky, and reactive.  Lavender’s inherent quality as an antiseptic, naturally calms without irritating.  Honey’s inherent qualities as a super-hydrating humectant and antioxidant, protects, while creating a moisture shield for the harsh and drying rays of the sun.  Key ingredients include lavender flower water, lavender flower oil, and honey.  Try chilling the bottle and keep at close range to spritz on your face, neck, and décolleté when this sensitive areas become hot or overheated.  Product also has outstanding aromatherapeutic properties that delight the olfactory.  http://www.naturopathica.com

Omorovicza Budapest Skincare Collection ~ When I test skincare products, I try to do so over a three to four week period, to gauge product efficacy and to see if there were any noticeable improvements in my skin’s overall texture, improved firmness, brightening, diminishment of fine lines and wrinkles, etc.  Unfortunately, I didn’t have sufficient product to test for that length of time.  Of the product sample packets “tested” during this abbreviated period, however, essentially the products were non-irritating, absorbed quickly without leaving any tacky residue, had pleasant aromas, and left my skin feeling cleansed and hydrated.  Product sample packets included Thermal Cleansing Balm, Refining Facial Polisher, Gold Hydralifting Mask, Illuminating Moisturiser, Intensive Hydra-Lifting Cream, and Reviving Eye Cream.  http://www.omorovicza.com

The Soap & Paper Factory Gardenia Solid Perfume ~ Many fragrance-based gardenia products are cloying and overpowering.  This product delicately captures the beautiful essences of this gorgeous flower; ease of application delivered by sunflower oil, which also helps to adhere the fragrance to applied areas.  The small compact is a nice take-with reminder that will subtly impart fragrance, while also being uplifting.  http://www.soapandpaperfactory.com

~ In Closing ~

No matter what your seasonal pleasures may be, keep a bag of them at-the-ready, filled with some of your favorite take-with items for on-the-go for those last minute pick-me-ups. 

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

N.B.  My writing hiatus has been the result of a number of major computer issues for nearly a month.  As I write this article, most of the issues have finally been resolved, with a few obstacles still pending.  Thanks for your patience and understanding and for continuing to be a valued reader and supporter of my creative efforts.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Cision Seek or Shout, Plaxo, Red Room, Pinterest, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

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(Introductory photo credit from careers.queensu.ca.  All other photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

REVIEW ~ Spa@theWit

 

Despite a continuing economic downturn in 2009, especially in the hospitality segment, Chicago welcomed theWit Hotel (A DoubleTree By Hilton) and its boutique Spa@theWit.  Located in the heart of Chicago’s bustling downtown area at State and Lake Streets, I was invited to review the Spa shortly after its opening.  Since that time, both the Hotel and Spa have remained a preferred destination for the discerning business and casual traveler, as well as for locals.  http://www.thewithotel.com       http://www.spaatthewit.com/

Fast forward five years - I was invited to return and review the Spa and experience their new theDetox Body Treatment, which was inspired by SPE Certified.  This healthy all-things food approach has more and more restaurants, resorts and hotels embracing the comprehensive concept, including the Hotel’s State and Lake Tavern.  Earlier this year, the restaurant earned the coveted SPE Certification, and to commemorate the distinction, the Spa developed theDetox Treatment to compliment the healthy dining experience and the Hotel's commitment to clean eating.  You can read my article about SPE Certified at http://terryssecondhelpings.blogspot.com/2014_02_01_archive.html

~ theDetox Body Treatment ~

Nyree, my massage therapist, would be administering this seventy-five minute therapeutic treatment.  Lying on a heated treatment bed that’s lined with plastic sheeting, Nyree begins with a dry exfoliation of the body using nubby exfoliating gloves (which the client gets to keep).  Dry exfoliation is beneficial in priming the skin and stimulating circulation.  It also helps to slough off any surface dry skin, which enables product application to adhere to the skin better, which improves the product’s efficacy.  Next, my body is further exfoliated with a full body application of Eminence Cucumber Mint Scrub.  Following this step, a solution of black tea is applied all over the body.  Black tea, high in antioxidants is also a natural diuretic due to its caffeine content, which aids in the detox.  After this step, the entire body is then massaged with the Eminence Organic Blueberry Soy Slimming Body Wrap product.  After this step, I’m completely wrapped in the plastic sheeting and covered blankets so my body can sweat.  My body’s heat activates the product’s properties, which allows for the pores to open up, while the product begins penetrating the skin. While all wrapped up in my cocoon, Nyree begins to gently massage my face, neck and scalp.  After twenty-minutes or so, I’m instructed to go into the luxurious in-room Kohler multi-jet shower and rinse off any traces of the product.  After the shower, I towel dry and get back onto the heated treatment table.  The culmination of this extraordinary treatment is a body massage and application of a moisturizer.  As with any well-executed treatment, like this one, it always, always ends too soon.  Nyree had worked her magic and I felt fabulous after the treatment.  Post-treatment, it would be important to drink plenty of water to rehydrate throughout the day, since detoxification dehydrates the body.

~ Eminence Organic Skin Care ~

Blueberry Soy Slimming Body Wrap

Profile ~ Recommended for all skin types.  Product can only be used by licensed professionals.

Properties ~ Aids in firming and hydrating.
Key Ingredients and Attributes ~

Blueberry ~ an antioxidant

Guava Leaf Extract ~ an antioxidant

Ground Poppy Seeds ~ a gentle exfoliant

Fucus Vesiculosis Extract (derived from seaweed) ~ stimulates the detoxification process

Bupleurum Falcatum Extract ~ a Chinese plant extract with anti-inflammatory attributes

Bilberry Leaf Extract ~ an antioxidant and source of flavonoids

Biocomplex™ ~ a proprietary formula of antioxidants, vitamins, Coenzyme Q10, and Alpha Lipoic Acid; diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, while improving the skin’s appearance

 

Cucumber Mint Sugar Scrub

Profile ~ Recommended for all skin types.

Properties ~ Gentle and effective skin polisher.

Key Ingredients and Attributes ~

Cucumber Purée ~ tones and revitalizes

Raw Sugar Cane Granules ~ a natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid, ideal for exfoliating

Sweet Almond Oil ~ hydrates and nourishes

Sunflower Oil ~ an antioxidant rich in vitamin E

Green Tea ~ an antioxidant rich in phenol and vitamin C

Comfrey ~ soothing and calming

Mint ~ restorative and stimulating

Parsley ~ an antioxidant with brightening attributes

Marjoram Leaf ~ a stimulant and toner

Basil ~ rich in beta carotene

Peppermint Oil ~ soothing and rich in vitamin A

Vitamin E ~ an antioxidant

 

Coconut Body Firming Lotion

Profile ~ Recommended for all skin types, especially mature.

Properties ~ Increases hydration, while rejuvenates.

Key Ingredients and Attributes ~

Bamboo ~ a soluble and insoluble fiber and antioxidants, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals

Coconut Milk ~ softens, moisturizes and nourishes skin

Coconut Water ~ tones and moisturizes, contains electrolytes, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, phosphorus,

Natural Retinol Alternative Complex ~ contains chicory root oligosaccharides and Tara tree, collagen boosting, firms and smoothes the appearance of skin

PhytoCellTec™ Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells ~ rejuvenating plant stem cell concentrate

Hyaluronic Acid (derived from Marshmallow Plant) ~ deeply hydrating; natural substance that smooths and plumps the skin to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Biocomplex™ ~ a booster of antioxidants, vitamins, Coenzyme Q10 and Alpha Lipoic Acid to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the appearance of skin

~ In Closing ~

  

I found this treatment both relaxing and revitalizing.  I especially noticed an improvement to my slightly swollen feet; post-treatment, there weren’t any traces of edema.  The texture of my skin was also silky, firm and exquisitely hydrated.  For my at-home adaptation of this treatment, I used the Eminence Cucumber Mint Scrub and Eminence Coconut Firming Body Lotion.  All products used in-treatment and at-home, were gentle and non-irritating; the subtle aromas were also aromatherapeutic. http://www.eminenceorganics.com/en-US/

  

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Cision Seek or Shout, Plaxo, Red Room, Pinterest, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

MORE SPA AND BEAUTY DISCOVERIES

Despite it being late-May, spring has finally arrived in my area.  While spring often tends to take its time arriving each year, it seemed to take longer than usual this time around.  During the winter to spring transition, I continued testing new products to add to my skincare regimens, which is what this article is about.  I’m also sharing my recent experiences at two outstanding regional trade industry events.

~ Industry Happenings ~

America’s Beauty Show has been owned and produced for ninety years by Cosmetologists Chicago and remains the nation’s largest industry show of its type, with over 60,000 attendees, which includes 6,000 licensed professionals and students from the area.  http://www.americasbeautyshow.com/ 

The Face & Body Spa Conference & Expo Midwest is presented by one of the leading industry publications, “Skin Inc. Magazine”.  This show continues to grow in size each year with more and more industry product leaders, exhibitors, and attendees; these facts alone are a testament to the need and demand for such a vitally important industry show for this area.  http://www.faceandbody.com/midwest/

Both America’s Beauty Show (ABS) and Face & Body Spa Conference & Expo, co-located at Chicago’s McCormick Place West, attract thousands of industry professionals, who flock to these annual events to take advantage of extensive opportunities in continuing education workshops, or hear from major industry presenters on current topics and state of the industry, or observe numerous product and treatment demos, while learning about trends and the latest techniques; they’re also able to peruse countless aisles of exhibitors and check out the latest in product offerings and make purchases of products for their businesses; the best part of these shows is also being able to network and reconnect with peers and first time “meet and greets”.  The ABS has the added dynamic of glitzy and glamorous runway shows and spirited contests involving seasoned veterans and students. 

Both shows represent the best and brightest in our industry.  The Chicago-area sometimes can feel like the industry stepchild, given the volume of other similar events held regionally in NY, FL, NV and CA; these two shows are the only major ones of their type in the Chicago-area, which somewhat defies the fact that there are thousands of businesses and licensed professionals here; attendance at both shows is always packed, so it’s not an issue of disinterest…but, I digress.

~ Products to Discover ~

Amarté Daily ExfoliPowder ~ I avoid harsh exfoliants because of potential damage it does to my sensitive skin and delicate facial tissue; I also only exfoliate a few times a month.  This product, however, is gentle enough to be used daily without causing any irritation; it left my skin silky and polished; the appearance and texture were refined after regular use; the powder turns into a low-foaming cleansing polish that is easily liquefied once a few drops of water are added into the palm of the hand; the applicator gives out a measured pour, so no waste occurs; rinses well without leaving any residue; I also enjoyed its beautiful aroma.  Key ingredients include extracts of pine, licorice, pearl powder, rice bran, wheat bran, and willow bark.  http://www.amarteskincare.com

Jane Iredale Limited Edition Golden Shimmer Face and Body Lotion ~ This beautiful product, from the eponymous brand that has led the industry for twenty-years, unveils its latest just in time for summer.  While I tend not to use an all-over face product like the Golden Shimmer, I absolutely loved how bright and luminous this product was on my cheekbones and even on my eyelids and under eyebrow area.  Product can also be applied to areas that naturally are sun kissed, like temples, bridge of nose, shoulders, legs, and even décolleté.  It’s an all-around ideal natural color that enhances whatever area it’s used on.  Key ingredients include diamond dust, sunflower seed oil, jojoba, aloe leaf juice, and extracts of apple fruit, elderflower, blackberry, green tea, white tea, grapefruit, and honeysuckle.  Worn alone, Golden Shimmer is just as beautiful as if worn under foundation or powder.  http://www.janeiredale.com

Probelle Touch N’ Grow ~ Nail Hardener and Plus Nail Hardener with Garlic & Lime ~ If you’ve ever struggled with thin, brittle, peeling or chipping nails, you can appreciate how difficult it can be to repair and restore them to a healthy state.  The health condition of the nail is often an indication of other factors that include hormonal changes or imbalances, illness, medication, and even poor nutrition; all these factors dramatically impact the health of the nail and can manifest itself in thinning, brittleness, chipping and peeling.  These two products are unique in that they not only form a protection barrier on the nail, but they encourage growth and stability for a healthier nail.  The Plus formulation also inhibits fungus and over time, will brighten the nail to a natural healthy color.  http://www.pro-belle.com

Rituals Laughing Buddha Collection ~ Fortune Scrub and Touch of Happiness Rich, Nourishing Body Cream in Sweet Orange & Cedar ~ Its name makes it a real treat to use these products in the shower and beyond. The Scrub was gentle, non-irritating and left the texture of the skin improved and hydrated.  Key ingredients include glycerin, sweet orange peel extract, juniper oil extract, and silica.  The Body Cream was the perfect accompaniment to the Scrub.  The Body Cream is whipped, but also dense, so a little goes a long way; it’s quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky or greasy residue and hydration levels remain throughout the day.  Key ingredients include Vitamin E, glycerin, sunflower seed oil, Gotu Cola extract, sweet orange peel extract, and juniper oil extract.  The aromas for both products were subtle, fresh, and uplifting.  http://us.rituals.com/en-us/home   http://www.barneys.com

TIGI Cosmetics ~ Crème Concealer, High Density Quad Eyeshadow, Glow Blush, and Decadent Lipstick ~ Taking color to a new level of function, TIGI, a leader in hair care, remains a strong presence in salon-dominated color makeup.   Product colors and performance are transformative and go from subtle to glam with colors that are vibrant, authentic and effortless.   I enjoyed how my winter-weary pallor was brightened and enhanced with beautiful spring colors.  The Concealer was perfect for minimizing and also functioned well as a base; the Quad Eyeshadow gave a multitude of neutral color combinations that brought out the features of my green eyes; the Blush added a healthy brightness to my cheeks; and, the Lipstick set off a stunning overall appearance of my new spring face.  To transform your day into an evening look, intensifying the application of color.  www.tigi-cosmetics.com

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream ~ I have very dry and cracked cuticles, and have tried many products over the years to combat this problem.  Skin Cream was one of the only products that helped heal and hydrate my cuticles; it absorbed quickly, was non-greasy, and created a water resistant barrier; for fifty-seven years it has been delivering results of healing, soothing, and hydrating.  Key ingredients include glycerin, camphor, Vitamins B2 and E and sodium hyaluronate; the pleasant camphor aroma dissipates quickly.  http://www.yu-be.com

~ Lastly ~

Take the time to discover more about each brand by visiting their websites, or search for them on various social media platforms.  Don’t forget to treat yourself occasionally and patronize a local salon or day spa; not only are you contributing to that business remaining open, you’re also helping out a small merchant and your local economy.  (N.B. Due to technical and compatibility issues no product images could be embedded; to view individual products, click on the active website links.)

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Cision Seek or Shout, Plaxo, Red Room, Pinterest, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)

N.B.  Google’s blog platform is incompatible with my Mac OS X and Firefox browser latest software versions, which is why some web links appear in different colors and why when attempting to have embedded images their sizing is consistent and/or can’t be sized.